1. Make a Natural Coconut Oil and Sugar Scrub
To treat dead skin cells that might be giving your skin a dry texture and appearance, you may consider a gentle homemade sugar scrub. Michigan State University recommends combining 1 cup of brown or granulated sugar with ½ cup of coconut oil. If you want, you can add an essential oil like lavender, which lends a natural fragrance and may promote relaxation and decrease anxiety, as a randomized controlled trial in the January 2022 Journal of Integrative and Complementary Medicine suggested. Gently rub the scrub into your skin for up to 30 seconds, then wash it off with lukewarm water. Last, the AAD recommends using a soothing moisturizer to lock in the benefits of freshly exfoliated skin.
Keep in mind that physical, or mechanical, exfoliation of this type may not be suitable for all skin types. The AAD doesn’t recommend scrubs for irritated, acne-prone, or sensitive skin.
Adell cautions against the use of sugar scrubs on sensitive skin, especially on the face. “The skin on your face is far more delicate than your body, so physical exfoliation can easily cause irritation and sensitivity,” she says. “My go-to exfoliation methods use chemical peel pads or enzyme powders.”
2. DIY A Rich, Creamy Avocado Mask
A homemade mask of avocado is another natural way to soothe dry skin, and Adell has used it at home in her own family. “This face mask is chock-full of antioxidants [and] probiotics that will promote healthy, glowing skin,” she says. She recommends combining ½ avocado with ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt (which may improve skin texture because of its lactic acid content, according to a review in a 2020 issue of Current Pharmaceutical Biotechnology), along with a drizzle of manuka honey and 1 teaspoon of turmeric for potential anti-inflammatory benefits and to improve symptoms of inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema, per a separate review in the September 2019 Nutrients. Apply the mixture to clean skin and let it set for 5 to 10 minutes before rinsing off.
As for the other half of the avocado, eat it! A small pilot study in the September 2022 Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that a group of female participants who ate an avocado daily increased their skin elasticity and firmness.
Another method used in another study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, in September 2020, combined avocado oil with water and saffron extract. Researchers found that this combination rejuvenated the skin and reduced the appearance of wrinkles, though it’s not clear whether any significant moisturization was noted.
3. Apply Coconut Oil Before Bedtime
Coconut oil, which a review in the July 2022 Journal of Drugs in Dermatology noted has roots in African and Indian cultures, is a popular home treatment for healthy hair and skin. “Coconut oil becomes a solid at room temperature, so use it as a moisturizing cream at bedtime or anytime,” recommends Tsippora Shainhouse, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at SkinSafe Dermatology and Skin Care in Beverly Hills, California. “For chapped heels and hands, apply the oil, then layer with thick socks or nonlatex gloves.”
4. Consider Using Nourishing Oils
“Natural oils are great for moisturizing the skin and helping to recreate the natural skin barrier, which is often damaged by frequent hand and face washing with water and drying soaps that strip the skin of its natural protective oils,” Dr. Shainhouse says. Aside from olive oil or coconut oil, you can test out other natural oils that are free from irritants, including jojoba, argan, and avocado oils. To use, Shainhouse recommends adding a few tablespoons of the desired oil under running bathwater. Treat yourself to a short soak and gently pat your skin dry afterward to avoid removing all the oil.
But as research published in December 2017 in Women's Health suggests, bathing with oils may not be best for women because of vaginal health risks. Instead, you may consider applying a small amount of your preferred oil to your skin post-shower to keep it soft and moist.
5. Use Milk Compresses for Irritated Skin
“Milk has natural anti-inflammatory properties,” says Shainhouse. "It also contains lactic acid, a mild, natural exfoliant.” In a 14-day controlled study published in the August 2020 Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, the use of a lactic-acid and ceramide-containing lotion twice daily was found to significantly improve skin hydration while eliminating dead skin cells, which suggests lactic-acid products may provide exfoliating benefits. That said, longer-term research is needed to confirm these results.
Additionally, Adell notes lactic acid is “one of the most hydrating [alpha-hydroxy acids] on the market.” She says it’s one of the safer acids for sensitive skin, and may also be used during pregnancy.
To make a milk compress, Cincinnati Health Institute advises soaking a clean cloth (like a washcloth or a towel) in a bowl of cool milk, and holding it in place over any dry areas. Shainhouse recommends using these compresses on your skin for 5 to 10 minutes at a time. It’s especially helpful for irritated skin that’s itchy, too.
Lactic acid can sting cracked skin, though, so use with caution, per Harvard Health Publishing. “Feeling mild tingling is common, but if you experience burning, stop using it and talk to your dermatologist or aesthetician,” Adell says. While research in the September 2018 Dermatologic Therapy notes that lactic acid may be beneficial in restoring the skin barrier and treating related conditions such as eczema, you may want to avoid this remedy if you have an active flare-up with cracked skin.